By By Lisa Tindell – news writerr
Traveling during the holidays is practically unavoidable. Whether you plan to shop around town or out of town, or if you plan to visit family in other cities, your travel plans need to be made with safety in mind.
Hicks said that those who plan to travel out of town this holiday season should inspect their automobiles before hitting the road.
Hicks said travelers should make plans well enough in advance to allow for adequate rest before the trip and to allow for plenty of time when making a trip.
Hicks also reminded travelers to make sure children are seated in the back seat and are safely secured.
Shoppers also need to be aware of some safety advice during the busy holiday period.
Other tips Hicks offered included carrying a cell phone, if possible, locking car doors when leaving the vehicle and to always be aware of your surroundings.
The Alabama Department of Public Safety will also be patrolling Alabama's roadways throughout the holiday travel season.
All available troopers will be on duty during a stepped-up enforcement effort that will include routine patrols and special enforcement details such as checkpoints and line patrols.
Public Safety Director Col. J. Christopher Murphy said troopers will be targeting drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs during the holiday travel season.
Murphy urged motorists to drive with care and caution during holiday travel, buckling up on each and every trip.
The Alabama Department of Public Safety estimates that 14 people may lose their lives in traffic crashes in the state during the 78-hour Christmas travel period, which begins at 6 p.m. Friday and ends at midnight Monday.
In 2005, 13 people died in traffic crashes on Alabama roadways during the 78-hour Christmas period, 10 on rural roadways and three in urban areas.
Alcohol was a factor in at least three of the deaths, and eight of the wreck victims were not using safety belts.
The traffic fatality prediction for New Year's is that 14 people may die in traffic crashes in Alabama during the 78-hour period from 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 29, through midnight Monday, Jan. 1, 2007.
Last year, 10 people died during the 78-hour New Year's travel period, six on rural roads and four in urban areas. At least six of the deaths involved alcohol, and three of the crash victims were not using safety belt